Statement as Government announce Higher Technical Education reform

The Government has announced plans to transform technical and vocational education in the UK. The proposals include the introduction of new T Levels from 2020, which are technical alternatives to A Levels, and the creation of high-quality apprenticeship opportunities.

Addressing the Commons, Nadhim Zahawi announced the next stage of the Government's consultation, saying;

"We want higher technical education to be a prestigious choice that delivers the skills employers need, encourages more students to continue studying after A Levels and T Levels and attracts people of all ages looking to upskill and retain."

He said that uptake and awareness of technical education at present was low, and set out the next steps the Government would take to increase uptake and reform the sector.

• Watch Parliament TV: statement on Higher Technical Qualifications
• Find out more about the Government's proposals for Higher Technical Qualifications (external site)
• Read Commons Hansard: statement on Higher Technical Qualifications

Responding for the Opposition, Shadow Minister Gordon Marsden said;

"Since 2010, we have said repeatedly on our side of the House that vocational and technical education must be put on an equal footing with academic routes to get the high-skilled workforce we need."

He said the Opposition welcomed the statement, but questioned the details, asking whether the new plans were a rebranding of existing qualifications or represented "meaningful policy change". 

Image: Unsplash

Follow the @HouseofCommons on Twitter for updates on the UK House of Commons Chamber.

Please fill in our quick feedback survey to help us improve our news content.